How to set Maximum Idle Time for an FTP connection via WHM?

The Maximum Idle Time setting in WHM controls how long an FTP connection can remain inactive before the server automatically disconnects it. This helps free up server resources by closing idle connections and improves security by limiting the window for unattended sessions.

Step 1: Log in to WHM

Open your browser and navigate to https://your-server-ip:2087. Enter your root credentials to access the WHM dashboard.

Step 2: Navigate to FTP Server Configuration

In the left-hand sidebar, go to Home » Service Configuration » FTP Server Configuration.

Step 3: Locate the Maximum Idle Time Setting

Find the field labelled Maximum Idle Time (seconds). This field is available for both Pure-FTPd and ProFTPD FTP servers.

Step 4: Set the Idle Timeout

Enter the desired value in seconds. Common values include:

• 300 — 5 minutes (good balance of security and usability)
• 600 — 10 minutes (suitable for users who transfer larger files)
• 120 — 2 minutes (aggressive, best for tightly controlled environments)

Important: This value is measured in seconds, not minutes. Entering 300 means 300 seconds (5 minutes), not 300 minutes.

Step 5: Save Changes

Click the Save button at the bottom of the page. The FTP server will restart automatically to apply the new configuration.

Important Notes

• This setting applies to all FTP connections on the server — it is a server-wide configuration.
• Setting the value too low may cause interruptions for users performing slow file transfers.
• This setting requires FTP services to be enabled. If the FTP Server Configuration page is not available, enable FTP in Home » Service Configuration » Service Manager.
• The idle timer resets each time the client sends a command or data through the FTP connection.

Troubleshooting

• Users getting disconnected too quickly: Increase the Maximum Idle Time value. Remember it is in seconds — try 600 (10 minutes) or higher.
• FTP Server Configuration page not available: Ensure FTP services are enabled via Home » Service Configuration » Service Manager.
• Changes do not take effect: The FTP server should restart automatically. If issues persist, restart manually via SSH: /usr/local/cpanel/scripts/restartsrv_proftpd or /usr/local/cpanel/scripts/restartsrv_pureftpd.

For more information, see the official cPanel FTP Server Configuration documentation.